South Cook News

Republican Patricia Bonk advanced from the June 28 primary and will vie for a seat to represent District 30 at the General Assembly.

She called for volunteers to help ensure election integrity will transpire at the general election. 

“If you would be willing to volunteer your time for the November election, please review this post,” Bonk, a former volunteer firefighter, said on Facebook. 

She also provided a contact form on her website for people who are interested in becoming "a part of positive change in Illinois." 

Bonk, who has recently completed the Lincoln Series for Women, an educational and preparatory leadership program for Republican Women, is running for State House in the 30th District mainly to get the violence in Chicago under control. She is very concerned that Chicago recorded 836 homicides in 2021, a 25-year record. The solution, according to her, is fully funding law enforcement to ensure adequate training and staffing.

“I am not one to sit back and let someone else do the job," Bonk said, The Southland Journal reported. "I am not one to just sit back and be apathetic and say ‘oh well that’s just how it is. I am about change and I want to be part of that change in Illinois."

Bonk also supports reforming the Illinois Pension system. After spending 43 years as a nurse, Bonk has seen firsthand the shortcomings of the healthcare system and supports reforms that it as well. Bonk is also alarmed by Illinois’ massive population loss, and she noted that taxes need to be relieved so people can keep more of their own money. She is also aware of the current issues that Illinoisans are facing.

"DCFS needs an overhaul," Bonk commented on the director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Marc Smith, being found in contempt of court for the 12th time. "As State Representative, this is one of my goals."

Bonk will have the chance to work on her goals once her supporters vote for her in the November election where she will be facing incumbent Democrat State Rep. William Davis. 

"Pat is a natural problem solver that has worked as a registered nurse for over 43 years, 30 of those years in the emergency department where life or death solutions are demanded daily," her campaign website states. "Patricia is well trained in analyzing problems and producing solutions that change lives for the better. She is your prescription for change in District 30."